Spring Cleaning: Tips & Ideas For A Spotless Home

Many of us have been ready for spring for a while - an especially long winter will do that to most, and this has been a long one (it doesn't even seem over in some places yet!). Although this change in seasons is one that's highly anticipated, it does bring with it something that not everyone loves: chores. That's right, we're talking about the dreaded act of spring cleaning, when the usual surface tidying will not do, and homeowners must instead start sweeping behind the very couches under which they normally hide dust.

It's easy to get overwhelmed by the magnitude of your spring cleaning "To Do" list, so we decided to help you get started and came up with a list of our own. We've found clever and efficient ways to complete your essential spring cleaning tasks. The way we see it, most spring cleaning chores fall into one of three categories: maintenance, organizing, and cleaning. To keep things simple we'll be posting separate blogs for each category. Today's is Cleaning, but make sure to watch out for Organizing and Maintenance.

Cleaning

Window Sills - Most of us are too busy looking through our windows to notice the dirt that can collect on the sill and inner part of the frame. These areas are a grime magnet, and since they're so awkward to clean, it can be hard to get them to shine - or at least it used to be. First Home Love Life has a great technique and solution for cleaning this space. All you need is vinegar, baking soda, water, and just a little elbow grease.

Images via First Home Love Life

Stove - Ok, it's harder not to notice the dirt and debris that collects on your stove and in your elements. The main issue holding most back from cleaning this part of the kitchen is knowledge. How do you get your stove spotless without breaking something (including a heavy sweat!)? Like most things in life, Martha Stewart has the answer.

Image via Martha Stewart

Oven- Martha also has great advice for cleaning your oven that doesn't involve scary, chemical-ridden oven cleaner. Make a paste out of baking soda and water and wait. Scrape it off after enough time has passed and you won't believe the results!

Image via Martha Stewart

Microwave - Not a big baker? Your microwave could probably use a good scrub. Simply Stacie has an awesome technique to remove the stuck on mess that can collect in this appliance without spending hours scrubbing.

Image via Simply Stacie

Washing Machine - Think you don't have to clean your washing machine? Think again! Yes, it does have soap and water running through it regularly to get your clothes clean. However, your garments will leave remnants of their now-removed stains as well as lint and other debris behind. Most manufacturers will recommend a semi-annual cleaning, so it's a great chore to incorporate into your spring cleaning list. Love, Pomegranate House has a fabulous method for getting a top loading washing machine clean. Try it today.

Image via Love, Pomegranate House

Mattress - Mattresses often get overlooked when it comes to spring cleaning, but trust us, this is something you want to clean! We won't got into dust mite facts (they're gross!) but seriously, clean your mattress. Better Homes and Gardens outlines a few different techniques you can try, and they're all very simple to execute.

Image via Better Homes and Gardens

We hope this list helps you get a jump start on your spring cleaning. Remember to check back for more tips on organization and home maintenance.

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